A wave of thefts that had been unsettling several rural communities in the Mayarí municipality was brought to a halt on Thursday. A police operation caught those responsible with over 400 pounds of stolen meat, along with live cows, horses, and tools used for livestock smuggling.
The incident involved seven individuals, several of whom were related. The group, consisting of Yunior Grau Estipiñán, Elidoy Peláez, Alexander Díaz Batista, Osmany Grau Estipiñán, Wilder Estipiñán, Wilmer Estipiñán Paredes, and Felipe Estipiñán, had been operating for months across areas like Cosme Batey, Herrera, Caridad, Juan Vicente, and Calabazas 6.
Reports on the Facebook profile Cazador-Cazado indicated that the gatherings of this criminal network weren't just family get-togethers, as initially thought, but part of a well-organized theft and smuggling operation. Operating from their base in La Pedrona, Mayarí, they targeted farmers, stripping them of their most valuable assets: livestock.
Residents noted that the criminals moved effortlessly through the region, exploiting the lack of surveillance to steal cows and horses. During the police raid, authorities seized over 400 pounds of meat and innards, along with knives, machetes, and scales—tools commonly used for slaughtering and processing livestock.
Additionally, four live cows and five horses were recovered and returned to their rightful owners. Cattle theft in the area poses a significant threat to producers, with many cases going unsolved. Authorities emphasized that those responsible will face judicial proceedings for their crimes.
Despite the arrests, the community remains concerned about security in rural areas, as livestock continues to be a frequent target for crime in the region.
Impact of Livestock Theft in Mayarí
How does livestock theft affect farmers in Mayarí?
Livestock theft significantly impacts farmers by depriving them of their primary source of income and livelihood, often leaving them without the means to continue their agricultural activities.
What measures are being taken against livestock theft in the region?
Authorities are conducting police operations to apprehend those involved in livestock theft and are committed to prosecuting these criminals to deter future incidents.